Bollywood has been known for its huge dramatic storytelling, melodious music, and larger-than-life style of portrayal. And when it comes to the various themes, thriller movies surely feature on top charts for keeping the audience glued to their screens with nail-biting moments and some mind-boggling twists that they won’t forget for a long long time (you know what I’m talking about). These surprising twists do not just changes the tales, but also highlights the brilliance of Indian film makers.
The Art of the Twist in Bollywood Thrillers
Plot twists serve as pivotal moments that challenge viewers’ perceptions, adding depth and complexity to the storyline. In Bollywood thrillers, these twists often intertwine with cultural nuances, character arcs, and societal themes, making them uniquely impactful.
Legendary Twists That Shaped Bollywood Thrillers
1. Gupt: The Hidden Truth (1997)
Rajiv Rai’s Gupt is renowned for its shocking revelation where the seemingly innocent Isha (Kajol) is unveiled as the murderer. This twist subverted traditional gender roles and earned Kajol the Filmfare Award for Best Villain, marking a significant moment in Bollywood history. (The Times of India, Wikipedia)
2. Kahaani (2012)
Sujoy Ghosh’s Kahaani follows Vidya Bagchi (Vidya Balan), a pregnant woman searching for her missing husband in Kolkata. The narrative takes a dramatic turn when it’s revealed that Vidya was never pregnant and orchestrated the entire investigation to avenge her husband’s death. (Indiatimes)
3. Don (2006)
A remake of the 1978 classic, Don features Shah Rukh Khan in a dual role. The film’s climax reveals that the real Don survived and impersonated his lookalike Vijay, who had been presumed to have taken Don’s place. (MensXP)
4. Andhadhun (2018)
Sriram Raghavan’s Andhadhun centers on a blind pianist, Akash (Ayushmann Khurrana), who becomes entangled in a murder. The film masterfully blurs the lines between reality and deception, leaving audiences questioning the truth until the very end. (Indiatimes)
5. Talaash (2012)
In Talaash, Inspector Surjan Singh (Aamir Khan) investigates a mysterious death, only to discover that Rosie (Kareena Kapoor), who aids him, is a ghost. This supernatural twist adds a haunting layer to the psychological thriller. (MensXP)
6. Kaun? (1999)
Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, Kaun? is a psychological thriller where a woman (Urmila Matondkar) is terrorized by intruders during a storm. The film concludes with the revelation that she is the serial killer, challenging viewers’ assumptions throughout. (filmcompanion.in)
7. Deewangee (2002)
Inspired by Primal Fear, Deewangee features Ajay Devgn as a man with dissociative identity disorder. The twist reveals that his condition was fabricated to escape conviction, showcasing a manipulative and calculated antagonist. (Wikipedia)
8. Drishyam (2015)
In Drishyam, Vijay Salgaonkar (Ajay Devgn) goes to great lengths to protect his family after a crime. The film’s twist lies in his meticulous cover-up, including burying the body beneath a police station, highlighting his cunning and resourcefulness. (Indiatimes)
9. Race (2008)
Abbas-Mustan’s Race is filled with betrayals and unexpected alliances. The film keeps audiences guessing with its multiple twists, including characters faking deaths and shifting loyalties, making it a quintessential Bollywood thriller. (MensXP)
10. Khakee (2004)
Khakee presents a gripping narrative where Aishwarya Rai’s character, initially portrayed as a victim, is revealed to be in cahoots with the antagonist, leading to a shocking betrayal that alters the course of the story. (MensXP)
The Evolution of Plot Twists in Bollywood
In imagination and action Bollywood thrillers have grown up, with their complicated stories and shades of gray. Contemporary film makers are influenced by international film making techniques and modern storytelling methods, whilst keeping in touch with their own cultural standpoint.
Bollywood thrillers often bring the best and worst from within the characters in sprinting towards a climax that the audience may or may not anticipate. While not the kind of surprises that provide an extra dimension of meaning to a film, these surprises are a surprising reminder of the industry’s creative talents. While Bollywood set the bar for creating entertaining movies, what else does its diverse movies challenge the brain and leave the mind blown with fascinating stories?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What makes a plot twist effective in Bollywood thrillers?
An effective plot twist subverts audience expectations, adds depth to the narrative, and enhances character development, often leaving a lasting impact.
Q2: Are plot twists common in Bollywood films?
Yes, especially in thriller genres, plot twists are a popular narrative device used to engage audiences and add complexity to the storyline.
Q3: Which Bollywood thriller is known for its unexpected ending?
Gupt: The Hidden Truth is renowned for its shocking revelation of the killer’s identity, which was unprecedented at the time of its release.(MensXP)
Q4: How have plot twists in Bollywood evolved over time?
Bollywood has transitioned from straightforward storytelling to more intricate narratives, with modern thrillers incorporating psychological elements and layered characters.
Q5: Can you recommend a Bollywood thriller with a supernatural twist?
Talaash combines elements of crime investigation with supernatural occurrences, culminating in a surprising and emotional twist.(The Times of India)
